Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 78%

Which TWO of the following are most likely to increase as a result of a continued decline in Arctic sea ice?

Rationale

The average air temperature of the Arctic and the absorption of sunlight by the Arctic Ocean are most likely to increase as a result of a continued decline in Arctic sea ice.

As Arctic sea ice diminishes, less sunlight is reflected back into the atmosphere, causing temperatures to rise and increasing the absorption of sunlight by the ocean. This feedback loop not only raises air temperatures but also accelerates further ice melt.

A (The average air temperature of the Arctic) CORRECT

As sea ice decreases, the darker ocean surface is exposed, which absorbs more solar radiation and raises the temperature of the surrounding air. The decline in reflective ice cover contributes to the warming of the Arctic, thereby likely increasing the average air temperature.

B (The salinity of Arctic seawater) YOUR ANSWER

While changes in sea ice can influence salinity, the decline in ice itself typically leads to increased freshwater input from melting ice, which can lower salinity levels rather than increase them. Thus, salinity is more likely to decrease as a result of continued ice melt.

C (The absorption of sunlight by the Arctic Ocean) CORRECT

With less ice cover, the ocean absorbs significantly more sunlight, leading to increased heat absorption. This process plays a critical role in the warming of the Arctic region, as the darker ocean surface absorbs more solar energy compared to reflective ice.

D (The availability of platforms from which polar bears in the Arctic can hunt) YOUR ANSWER

The decline of sea ice decreases the platforms available for polar bears to hunt seals, their primary food source. As ice melts, hunting grounds become more scarce, making this choice unlikely to increase in relation to declining ice.

Conclusion

The ongoing decline in Arctic sea ice is directly linked to rising average air temperatures and increased sunlight absorption by the Arctic Ocean. While these factors contribute to a feedback loop of warming and further ice loss, other aspects like salinity and hunting platforms for polar bears are negatively affected. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing the impacts of climate change in the Arctic region.

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